Program Overview
The MSc Biomedical Science Online Course from Ulster University is a part-time, distance learning program designed for Biomedical Scientists and equivalents. It blends academic theory with practical techniques, offering four specialized pathways: Medical Microbiology, Haematology, Clinical Chemistry, and Cell Pathology. The program equips graduates with advanced knowledge, transferable skills, and problem-solving abilities to enhance their careers in the biomedical sector.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
- Awarded by: Ulster University
- Level: Master's
- Mode of study: Online
- Duration: Minimum two years, part-time
- Intakes: January, March, May, July, September, and November
- Program type: Distance learning
- Accreditation: IBMS accredited
- Fees: £697.50 per 15-credit module
Objectives:
- To equip you with further specialist knowledge, key transferable skills, and strategic problem-solving techniques to enhance your career as a Biomedical Scientist.
- To blend academic theory with hands-on, practical techniques.
- To enable you to specialize in your chosen area of expertise.
- To enhance your career prospects.
Program Description:
This online MSc program blends academic theory with hands-on, practical techniques to equip you with further specialist knowledge, key transferable skills, and strategic problem-solving techniques. The program is designed for individuals who are employed as Biomedical Scientists, Trainee Biomedical Scientists, or equivalents in a hospital or research laboratory. Participants are required to have access to a laboratory to enable them to complete the Research Project. The program offers a choice of four specialized pathways: Medical microbiology, Haematology, Clinical Chemistry, and Cell Pathology. Students must demonstrate that they have studied that specialization at level 5 or demonstrate the ability to undertake the module through the accreditation of prior experiential learning.
Outline:
Modules:
- Introduction to Personalised Medicine and Pharmacogenomics (15 credits)
- Applied Research Methods (15 credits)
- Advances in Medical Biotechnology and Healthcare Delivery (15 credits)
- Evidence-Based Practice in Healthcare Sciences (30 credits)
- Research Project (60 credits)
Optional modules:
- Quality Management (15 credits)
- Biomedical Informatics (15 credits)
Optional specialism modules:
- Advances in Cellular Pathology (30 credits)
- Recent Advances in Clinical Chemistry (30 credits)
- Haematology in Health and Disease (30 credits) To earn the Biomedical Science Masters degree, you will need to successfully complete all modules to earn the necessary 180 credits.
Assessment:
Assessment methods vary by module and may include class tests, written assignments, report writing, timed online assessments, and the Research Project.
Teaching:
The program is delivered entirely online through Ulster's online learning platform.
Faculty:
The program is taught by a team of experienced and research-active academics from the School of Biomedical Sciences.
Teaching methods:
The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including interactive study sessions, directed learning exercises, and practical activities. The program also includes monthly group calls with the course leader.
Careers:
Graduates of the program are eligible for IBMS membership and can subsequently qualify for Chartered Scientist status in the UK. The program also prepares graduates for a variety of careers in the biomedical sector, including:
- Research Scientist
- Clinical Scientist
- Lecturer/Teacher
- Quality Manager
- Healthcare Consultant
Other:
- The program is ranked 2nd in the UK for biomedical science (Guardian University Guide, 2024).
- The School of Biomedical Sciences at Ulster University is ranked among the top 6% of UK universities for Research Power in Allied Health Professions.
- The program is delivered 100% online, offering flexibility and convenience for students.
- Students have access to a dedicated Student Success Advisor who provides support throughout the program.
- Tuition fees may be subject to an annual inflationary increase each academic year.
- A 10% Alumni Discount is available for eligible candidates.
Admission Requirements:
- A 2.2 Honours Degree or above in Biomedical Science, or in Biological Science with a significant amount of biomedical science, from any university in the UK, the Republic of Ireland, from a national awarding body, or an international equivalent.
- OR
- An equivalent standard (normally 50%) in a Graduate Diploma, Graduate Certificate, Postgraduate Certificate, or Postgraduate Diploma, or an approved alternative qualification.
- In exceptional circumstances, individuals with substantial and significant experiential learning and written evidence that they meet the necessary criteria as determined by the Course Committee may also be considered for the course.
- Professional Requirements:
- You should be employed as a Biomedical Scientist, Trainee Biomedical Scientist, or equivalent in a hospital or research laboratory.
- When you apply, you will need to confirm that you will have access to a laboratory to enable you to complete the Research Project.
- You will need to provide a signed agreement from your employer that they will appoint a mentor to supervise your project.
- During the application process, you will also have to choose the specialism that is most relevant to your career aspirations. Choose one of these four pathways:
- Medical microbiology
- Haematology
- Clinical chemistry
- Cell pathology
- English language requirements:
- You will need to provide evidence of competence in written and spoken English (GCSE grade C or equivalent).
- If English is not your first language, the minimum requirement is Academic IELTS 6.0 (with no band score less than 5.5), or a Trinity ISE Pass at level III. However, it is possible that some information may have been missed or misinterpreted.
Ulster University
Overview:
Ulster University is a public university in Northern Ireland with campuses in Belfast, Coleraine, Derry~Londonderry, and a dedicated Sports Village. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, as well as short courses and research opportunities. The university is known for its commitment to research and innovation, ranking in the top 10% of UK universities for research impact.
Services Offered:
Ulster University provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:
Accommodation:
On-campus accommodation options are available at all campuses.Sports Services:
The university boasts a dedicated Sports Village with various facilities and memberships.Student Union:
The Ulster University Students' Union (UUSU) offers a variety of support services and social activities.Student Wellbeing:
The university provides support services for student mental health and well-being.Digital Services:
Students have access to online resources and services through the university portal.Library Services:
The university library offers a wide range of resources and support for learning, teaching, and research.Employability and Careers Advice:
The university provides guidance and support for students seeking employment opportunities.Global Partnerships:
The university offers opportunities for international students and partnerships with other institutions.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Ulster University offers a vibrant and diverse campus experience. Students can expect:
Strong sense of community:
Each campus fosters a welcoming and supportive environment.Active student life:
UUSU organizes various social events, clubs, and societies.Access to facilities:
Students have access to modern facilities, including libraries, sports centers, and accommodation.Opportunities for personal development:
The university offers various programs and activities to enhance students' skills and well-being.Key Reasons to Study There:
High-quality education:
Ulster University offers a wide range of programs taught by experienced academics.Strong research focus:
The university is known for its commitment to research and innovation.Vibrant campus life:
Students can enjoy a diverse and engaging campus experience.Excellent support services:
The university provides comprehensive support services for students' academic and personal needs.Career-focused approach:
The university emphasizes employability and provides career guidance to students.Academic Programs:
Ulster University offers a wide range of academic programs across various faculties, including:
Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Computing, Engineering and the Built Environment
Life and Health Sciences
Ulster University Business School
The university is particularly strong in areas such as:
Nursing and Healthcare
Business and Management
Engineering and Technology
Arts and Humanities
Other:
- The university has a strong commitment to sustainability and social responsibility.
- Ulster University is registered with the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland.
- The university has a dedicated website for alumni and supporters.
- The university offers a range of online courses and resources.
Entry Requirements:
EU home students:
- A 2.2 Honours Degree or above in Biomedical Science, or in Biological Science with a significant amount of biomedical science, from any university in the UK, the Republic of Ireland, from a national awarding body, or an international equivalent.
- An equivalent standard (normally 50%) in a Graduate Diploma, Graduate Certificate, Postgraduate Certificate or Postgraduate Diploma, or an approved alternative qualification.
- In exceptional circumstances, individuals with substantial and significant experiential learning and written evidence that they meet the necessary criteria as determined by the Course Committee may also be considered for the course.
International overseas students outside the EU:
- The same requirements as EU students apply.
- In addition, international students must demonstrate proficiency in the English language. This can be done by achieving a minimum score of 6.0 on the IELTS test, with no band score less than 5.5.
Additional requirements:
- You must be employed as a Biomedical Scientist, Trainee Biomedical Scientist, or equivalent in a hospital or research laboratory.
- You will need to confirm that you have access to a laboratory to enable you to complete the Research Project.
- You will need to provide a signed agreement from your employer that they will appoint a mentor to supervise your project.
- During the application process, you must choose the specialism that is most relevant to your career aspirations:
- Medical microbiology
- Haematology
- Clinical chemistry
- Cell pathology
- For these specialist modules, students must provide evidence that they have studied that specialism at level 5, or demonstrate the ability to undertake the module through accreditation of prior experiential learning.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- International students who are non-native English speakers must meet the minimum English language proficiency requirement of an academic IELTS score of 6.0 with no band score less than 5.5.